The K&N 33-2442 is a panel-style, washable, reusable engine air filter built from layered, oiled cotton gauze, designed as a drop-in replacement for the factory paper filter in the air box. The manufacturer lists it for the 2010-2016 Buick LaCrosse with the 2.4L four-cylinder and 3.6L V6 (fuel-injected). Over the life of the car, K&N says this reusable filter can save up to $125 compared with buying several disposable filters, so the higher upfront price pays back over time. Buyers looking for a 2010-2016 LaCrosse 2.4L or 3.6L V6 cold-air-style intake upgrade, a washable panel air filter, or a lifetime K&N replacement filter will find this part's specs and fitment below. It carries the No-Hassle Lifetime Limited Warranty.
Because the filter is cleaned and re-oiled rather than thrown away, the maintenance schedule matters as much as the purchase price. The manufacturer's guidance for this filter is up to 50,000 miles between cleanings, depending on driving conditions, and it specifies a re-oiling amount of 1.75 oz (52 ml). Installation is a drop-in swap into the factory air box, but K&N notes that the clips may need more closing pressure than an OEM foam-sealed lid, so the lid should seat cleanly before you fasten it. Owners of the LaCrosse and Regal platforms searching for a K&N 33-2442 install guide or a 3.6L V6 air filter upgrade should check the year and engine against their VIN before ordering.
The manufacturer's listing for this filter names the Buick LaCrosse, 2010-2016, with the 2.4L and 3.6L engines. Regal year and engine coverage is described inconsistently across sources, so confirm the application against your VIN with the manufacturer before ordering.
The manufacturer says this filter can go up to 50,000 miles between cleanings, depending on driving conditions. Dusty or stop-and-go driving calls for more frequent checks.
The manufacturer describes it as a direct, drop-in replacement for the stock filter with no modifications required. Its general install guidance says to clean the sealing surfaces first and to make sure the filter is fully seated before closing the lid.
Per the manufacturer's general K&N air box instructions, the swap is a drop-in job: remove the factory filter, wipe out dirt and debris from the air box base and the lid's sealing surfaces, and set the new filter in the lid groove so it sits flush. Seat the lid onto the base before fastening the clips, and if the lid resists, slide it gently side to side until it settles. Disconnecting the intake tube from the lid can make it easier to maneuver, since some tubes are stiff. Clips on a K&N filter take more pressure than an OEM foam seal, so if the air box bends noticeably, stop and recheck the fit to avoid cracking the housing. The manufacturer also suggests applying its "K&N Stop" decal to the air box to flag the washable filter for anyone who services the car later.
